The level of humidity in your home can make a huge difference in your comfort level. Whether it's the winter months in the northern sections of the country when the heat robs you of the moisture in the air, or the summer months in southern states where dryness levels rise from the constant running of the air conditioning, you know there is a problem when your skin dries and cracks, your nose gets stuffy and you find yourself watering your plants more frequently. But, you can fight back!
HUMIDIFIER
A humidifier is the most efficient means of adding moisture back into the air in your home. The come in all sizes and shapes, from one that you add to your heating and/or air conditioning system to one that moisturizes a small room. You are the only one who can decide which to buy as it will be based on your budget as much as your needs. If you need moisture on a continuous basis throughout the year and can afford a house humidifier, it is the way to go. If not, a room size unit will get you through the difficult times.
POTS OF WATER
It may seem as if leaving pots of water about could not possibly make a difference, but it does. Fill several pans of water and place them, two to a room, wherever you want to add humidity. Place them near radiators or vents if possible. This will speed up the process of evaporation. Check them often and fill them as needed.
BOIL WATER ON THE STOVE
This can raise your electric bill if you have an electric stove and do this often, but on very dry days you can boil a large pot of water on your stove until it produces steam and then turn the temperature back a notch to slow down the boil. As long as moisture is rising from the pot you are adding humidity to the room. This is only a short term solution.
DRY LAUNDRY INSIDE
This is an excellent way to raise the humidity level in your house if you can dry your clothes in an open area in the house. Purchase drying racks or string a line wherever you can find a place and hang your clothes directly from the dryer. As they dry and the moisture evaporates into the air, the humidity level in your home will rise. It will save you money on your electric bill as well since you won't be running the dryer!
RELEASE SHOWER STEAM
Whenever you take a hot shower, leave the door open as much as possible to allow the moisture to escape into the house. If you have a bathroom off of your bedroom, close the door to your bedroom, open the door to the bathroom and moisturize your bedroom before you go to sleep. You may find you sleep better!
Adding moisture to your home through these means may be all you need to live more comfortably during dry spells. It does take some effort but your skin will love you for it!